Fibromyalgia: what are the best treatments

Fibromyalgia is characterized by persistent musculoskeletal pain. It is widespread throughout the body. This is because it is a chronic condition of the central nervous system. It comes with symptoms that worsen quality of life, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances and cognitive symptoms. The condition was recognized as a medical condition only in 1990.

What is fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome. It is characterized by chronic, widespread pain. The pain is generally located in muscles, tendons and ligaments. Unfortunately, it is a complex, multifactorial condition that involves the central nervous system and the perception of pain. Even though it is now a widespread condition, it is often not addressed adequately and promptly. Specialists are essential for improving quality of life.

Symptoms of fibromyalgia

Symptoms vary from person to person, also depending on the degree of pain perception. Several symptoms, however, are shared by many people. Among these, the most common in people with the condition is musculoskeletal pain. It is the symptom that characterizes fibromyalgia. The pain, persistent and widespread, can vary in intensity. It is often, in fact, described as a burning sensation, stabbing pains or deep aching. To this symptom must be added chronic fatigue, that is, the persistent tiredness that patients report. Many times, sleep disturbances are also to blame. People with fibromyalgia wake up frequently during the night. In some cases they have cognitive symptoms, that is, brain fog. Another symptom is sensitivity to pain, which leads to hypersensitivity, including in the reaction to stimuli. Finally, gastrointestinal problems (especially irritable bowel), headaches, anxiety and depression cannot be ruled out.

What the doctor does at the first consultation

If you suspect you have fibromyalgia or are experiencing similar symptoms, it is important to consult an experienced doctor. A rheumatologist or a neurologist can confirm the diagnosis and plan an appropriate treatment plan. It is essential to involve a doctor you trust who can guide the management of fibromyalgia. The specialist, in turn, first takes the patient’s medical history. He or she tries to understand the patient’s clinical history. From the symptoms reported by the patient, the specialist can already begin to get an idea of whether this is a case of fibromyalgia. He or she then goes on to a complete physical examination. The key part of this examination is the assessment of the tender points. The specialist identifies and evaluates the sensitive points. Through this examination, the specialist is able to understand whether or not this is a suspected case of fibromyalgia.

Treatments

To date, it can be said that there is no definitive cure for fibromyalgia. Specialists have several treatment options available to help manage the symptoms of the syndrome.

• Medications. They fight pain, improve sleep and reduce inflammation. In particular, the specialist prescribes tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
• Physical therapy. It helps reduce pain and improves muscle strength, flexibility and mobility in general.
• Occupational therapy. It focuses on managing daily activities to make the person with fibromyalgia as independent as possible.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is indicated for managing the anxiety associated with the condition.

To all this must be added changes to the patient’s lifestyle and the psychological support the patient needs along the way.